Alfa Romeo T33/3

Alfa Romeo’s Tipo 33 sports prototypes debuted in 1967 and evolved into the 12-cylinder machines which secured the world championship in 1975. But the best-loved were the 3-litre 33/3 barchettas of the early ’70s which were powered by detuned Formula One V8 engines.

These cars ran in spaceframe (Telaio Tubolare) and monocoque forms, and were driven by such stars as Nino Vaccarella — who won the 1971 Targa Florio in front of his adoring home fans in Sicily — Ronnie Peterson, Henri Pescarolo and Rolf Stommelen, with much success.

Jon Shipman’s monocoque chassis is 019, but tracing its history is a nightmare, since Alfa’s competition arm, Autodelta, kept few records, and documented evidence for specific cars is scarce.

Acquired from Coys of Kensington last October, the car has been beautifully reconstructed by Richard Walbyoff of Brackley-based RW Racing Services.

“We put a new floor in the tub, made up new wishbones, and had the uprights and (Alfa six-speed) gearbox casing rechromated in the correct gold,” said Walbyoff.

“I worked all hours, after the engine came back from Dick Langford on June 28, to get it here. It develops 400bhp at 9500rpm, but fuel pressure problems forced retirement.

“That was disappointing, but we were extremely delighted with all the interest the car generated.”

The car will be shared by journo racer Mark Hales in two-driver races.